Camp holds first firefighter training graduation

July 1, 2025

Puerta La Cruz Conservation Camp 14 in Warner Springs became the first camp to successfully graduate a firefighter training program. The ceremony was held June 20, featuring guest speakers from CALFIRE, CDCR, and the Sacramento Fire Academy.

The firefighter training program was originally offered at the institution level but has now been moved to the female conservation camp. In collaboration with CALFIRE, CDCR will be able to provide incarcerated persons to the two Southern California female conservation camps.

Incarcerated people demonstrate their firefighter training at Puerta La Cruz Conservation Camp 14.

Two incarcerated people demonstrate their firefighter training at Puerta La Cruz Conservation Camp 14.

CALFIRE master instructor Capt. W. Baker said he is excited about the program and looks forward to providing high-level instruction for the incarcerated population as they become wildland firefighters.

Firefighter Krista Swift, who was previously incarcerated at Puerta La Cruz, has since gained full employment and now runs a fuel-reductions crew out of the Sacramento area. To the graduates, she offered insight and hope to the graduating class. The skills they learn at camp will help them become successful upon release if they choose to remain in the wild-land firefighting industry.

“We look forward to the future and many more graduations as the camp program continues to flourish,” said organizers.

Submitted by Lt. M. Bennett, camp commander
Puerta La Cruz Conservation Camp 14